About Me
A highly experienced and results-oriented Head of IT with over 20 years of expertise across diverse industries, including maritime cargo transport, real estate, and digital marketing. Proven ability to lead and manage IT departments, including ERP implementations, infrastructure development, cybersecurity, data privacy compliance, and innovative technology solutions. Experienced in cloud technologies, website hosting, data management, and server administration. Strong leadership background, starting with managing a global SEO team and progressing to leading a complete IT department. Background in Computer Engineering (hardware and software) with graduate-level coursework in business administration (MBA) and management information systems (MIS). Adept at bridging the gap between technical and business requirements to drive successful outcomes.
Experience
As Head of IT, I provide strategic leadership and operational management for the entire IT department. This includes overseeing all aspects of IT planning, infrastructure development, cybersecurity, ERP systems, data privacy, and innovative technology solutions to support the company’s business objectives.
- Lead and manage the entire IT department, including strategic planning, budget management, personnel management (hiring, training, performance reviews), and technology procurement.
- Oversaw the development, implementation, and maintenance of all IT systems, including the core ERP system (accessible on both PC and mobile devices).
- Spearheaded the in-house development of IoT devices to augment the ERP system, such as:
- Biometric authentication systems
- GPS tracking systems for company-owned vessels
- Ruggedized kiosks for employee workstations in hazardous or remote locations.
- Managed the company’s IT infrastructure, including:
- Network connectivity (wireless connections to remote offices, including tower construction and maintenance)
- CCTV security systems
- Renewable energy solutions (solar power implementation)
- Ensured data privacy compliance in accordance with RA 10173 and other relevant regulations.
Avega Bros Integrated Shipping Corp
Data Protection Officer (DPO)
April 2019 - Present
www.avegabros.com
As Data Protection Officer, I ensured compliance with national and international data privacy regulations, including the Philippines’ Data Privacy Act. I developed and implemented data protection policies and procedures, conducted privacy impact assessments and audits, and provided training to employees on data privacy best practices. I also managed data subject requests and collaborated with stakeholders to integrate data privacy considerations into business processes and systems. Tasks include:
- Overseeing and implementing data protection strategies in compliance with relevant regulations (e.g., GDPR, CCPA, RA 10173).
- Creation of the company data privacy manual
- Managing data privacy policies and procedures.
- Conducting data protection impact assessments (DPIAs).
- Serving as the primary point of contact for data privacy inquiries.
Started as a Head Programmer, developing and implementing an ERP system using Java. Within a year, I was promoted to Assistant Manager and functioned as the de facto IT Manager, leading the department in the absence of a direct manager. My responsibilities included strategic IT planning, project management, and operational oversight, all within the context of the real estate industry. This involved managing IT infrastructure, overseeing software development, ensuring data security, and collaborating with stakeholders to align IT solutions with business objectives.
Turnkey Publishing, LLC
Project Manager
October 2009 - January 2015
As a Remote Project Manager, I collaborated with US-based clients on a variety of website development projects. My responsibilities spanned the entire project lifecycle, from initial concept and requirements gathering to development, testing, deployment, and ongoing maintenance. I have extensive experience deploying WordPress websites, including plugin development and customization to meet specific client needs. I successfully managed and launched several websites in succession, ensuring timely delivery and client satisfaction. I also gained experience with AWS services, specifically S3 and EC2, for website hosting and data management. Additionally, I am proficient in using Plesk and WHM for server management and website administration. I managed project scopes, timelines, and budgets, ensuring projects were delivered on time and within budget. Effective communication with clients and development teams was crucial to my success, and I provided regular updates, addressed any concerns, and facilitated collaboration.
Hubport Interactive
SEO Manager
November 2007 - October 2009
Started my management career leading and managing a team of SEO specialists across three shifts to provide 24/7 coverage for clients in Australia, the US, and Canada. Developed and implemented comprehensive SEO strategies from the ground up, including:
- Website assessment and analysis.
- Keyword research and strategy development.
- On-site optimization (technical SEO, content optimization).
- Off-site optimization (link building, content marketing).
- Performance tracking and reporting.
Education
University of the Philippines Open University (UPOU)
Master of Information Systems (MIS) - credit units
Los Baños, Laguna
Master of Science in Information Systems program focused on preparing for leadership roles in IT management. Integrated business principles with advanced IT training, developing expertise in database management, software development, cybersecurity, data analytics, and project management.
Notre Dame of Dadiangas University (NDDU)
Master of Business Administration (MBA) - credit units
General Santos City
Master of Business Administration program provided a comprehensive understanding of business principles and practices, including finance, accounting, marketing, operations, and strategic management. Developed leadership skills and decision-making abilities in a business context.
Mindanao Polytechnic State College (MPSC)
Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering
Cagayan de Oro City
Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering program integrating electrical engineering and computer science principles, with a focus on the design, development, implementation, and maintenance of both hardware and software components. The curriculum encompassed mathematics, science, computer programming, circuit design, computer architecture, embedded systems, digital signal processing, network systems, and artificial intelligence. The program emphasized analytical skills, critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills to develop comprehensive technological solutions.
Projects
Driving the creation of ABAS, a robust ERP platform designed to automate and integrate all core business processes at Avega Bros. This project involves managing a development team and overseeing the implementation of diverse modules (accounting, HR, inventory, etc.). Innovation is furthered through the deployment of ePortal kiosks, providing mobile ERP access to employees in challenging environments, such as maritime vessels.
Spearheaded the development and implementation of Ship Tracking And Reporting System (STARS), a cutting-edge vessel monitoring system that leverages Starlink internet connectivity, solar renewable energy, GPS IoT devices, and CCTV cameras. This system provides real-time tracking of vessel location, speed, fuel consumption, and other critical parameters. STARS also incorporates advanced analytics and alarm functionalities to detect anomalies, such as sudden fuel decreases or engine shutdowns, enhancing operational efficiency and security.
Skills
IT Management:
- IT Strategy and Planning
- Budget Management
- Personnel Management (Hiring, Training, Performance Reviews)
- Vendor Management
- IT Infrastructure Management
ERP:
- ERP System Development (In-house & Vendor-based)
- ERP Implementation and Maintenance
- Requirements Gathering and Analysis
Software Development:
- Full Software Development Lifecycle (SDLC)
- Systems Design and Architecture
- Agile Development
- Scrum
- React, Next.js, CodeIgniter, PHP, Python
IoT Development:
- Embedded Systems
- ESP32, Arduino, RaspberryPi
- SMS integration
Infrastructure:
- Network Connectivity (Wireless, Tower Construction)
- CCTV Systems
- Renewable Energy (Solar)
Project Management:
- Agile
- Scrum
- Budget Management
- Resource Allocation
- Stakeholder Management
SEO:
- Organic SEO
- Paid SEO (Google Ads/AdWords)
- Google Analytics
- Keyword Research and Optimization
- On-Page and Off-Page Optimization
Data Privacy:
- Data Privacy Act of the Philippines (RA 10173)
- Data Privacy Compliance
- Policy and Procedure Development
Management:
- Team Leadership
- Communication (written and verbal)
- Problem-Solving
- Business Analysis